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Mr Pearson, an ex-serviceman who lives in Inham Road, said: "It is really important that we remember those who fought in the war, and we must never, ever forget what has gone on.

"The flowers should continue to display year after year and will show not only former service personnel but also the general public that we care."

The 75-year-old joined the Durham Light Infantry in 1963 and served in the Army for 30 years, including three tours of duty in Northern Ireland, reaching the rank of Warrant Officer. He then served for a further 11 years in the Territorial Army.

His daughter Katrina Sukky, 46, of London, was also at the event.

She said: "It is such a long time ago that it is good that people, especially youngsters, remember what has happened.

"I am so proud of my dad. The army has been his life."

The seed sowing is one of around 100 events and activities being held across the city and county as part of the Trent to Trenches project.

Councillor Jane Urquhart, Nottingham City Council's portfolio holder for planning and transportation, was also on seed-planting duties.

She said: "Many or most of the men who went off to war would have used Nottingham's original tram service to take them across the city to the train stations from where they would travel to their units, and that's why we think it is a fitting tribute to sow poppy seeds along part of the new tramline.

"They can be a perennial reminder of how thankful we should all be to live in Nottingham at a time when so many places in the world do not share the same levels of peace and prosperity."

TWA programme director Mr Paul Harris said: "We are very happy to support the planting of these poppies. They will act as a reminder of the sacrifices made to enable future generations to live in peace."